About Nagaland

, Nagaland

Nagaland is an Indian state located in the country’s northeastern region. Kohima is the capital city of Nagaland and the language widely spoken is Nagamese. The state covers a total area of 16,579 sq. kilometers, and Nagaland attained statehood on the 1st of December, 1963.

The state is divided into eleven districts. Nagaland is basically a mountainous range and the people in the state are called Nagas.

Agriculture is the major occupation of the Naga people and the primary crops grown in the state are corn, millets, rice, fibers, potatoes, oilseeds, tobacco and pulses. The major industries are cottage industries, forestry, tourism, real estate and insurance. The British sent many Nagas to France as soldiers, during World War I. Christianity is one of the most predominant religions in Nagaland.

Why Visit the State?

Many adventure camps provide motorcycle tours throughout the northeastern states in India, including this state. Nagaland is often frequented by tourists who wish to experience the tribal traditions and culture of the region. The Touphema Tourist Village here is located on a small hillock that provides a panoramic view of the valleys below it. Tourists get to experience tribal life and get insights into the local history. Many resorts which promote similar packages can be found here.

The first week of December witnesses the Hornbill Festival, which showcases the cultural traditions in the state. A series of demonstrations and performances are held during this festival and this is a very famous event in the state that is celebrated with aplomb.

The Dzukou valley is full of bamboo trees and the streams flowing through the valley are frozen during the winter. The months of September and June cover the valley with a shroud of flowers.

Exploring the Culture of Nagaland

There are fourteen tribes residing in Nagaland; Angami Naga, Chang, Ao, Chakhesang, Konyak, Phom, Lotha, Sumi, Sangtam, Rengma, Pochury, Zeliang and Yimchungru. The clan and tribe traditions are an integral part of the Naga life. Weaving is a rich tradition among the Nagas. The various products made by the weavers of the state are shawls, bags and table mats. The other crafts produced by the Naga people are decorative spears, bamboo works, wood carvings and many more. Each tribe has their own colour and identity.

Almost all of the populations in the state are Christians. It is one of the states in India with the highest Christian population. A number of churches can be found in Mokokchung, Dimapur and Kohima. Baptists are predominant among Christians. Nagaland is the most Baptist predominant state in the world. The other sects are Revivalists, Pentecostals and Roman Catholics.

The Nagas speak 60 dialects, which are different from one another. The script used is generally English, as introduced by the Christian missionaries. Nagamese is the widely popular language in the state and is used for communication within the tribes.

Facts for Tourists

Alcohol is prohibited in Nagaland. Foreign nationals need to issue a Restricted Area Permit before entering the state, which are available at the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi. An Inner line permit for domestic tourists needs to be issued from Nagaland house, either in Kolkata or Delhi.